Mount Vlašić and Travnik

Gentle Mt. Vlašić dominates central BiH and is characterized by a pleasant climate and beautiful scenery. The mountain (1) offers visitors a variety of accommodation, opportunities for fun, and the possibility to relax or enjoy summer and winter sports. Climbing Mt. Vlašić's peaks, walking to waterfalls (2), horseback riding and mountain biking are popular summer activities, while winter sports can be enjoyed in the snow (3). Below Mt. Vlašić in the Lašva River Valley is Travnik (4), a town with a rich history. For 134 years, Travnik served as the center of the Bosnian Pashalik (an administrative region in the Ottoman Empire) and as the residence of the Ottoman viziers (or governors) in BiH.

The Vlašić region is known for Vlašić (Travnik) cheese and Tornjaks, an indigenous breed of Bosnian shepherd dogs. Vlašić cheese is made from fresh, unpasteurized sheep or cow's milk, used immediately after milking. In earlier times the cheese was made exclusively in mountain huts called "katun." The cheese requires approx. 2-3 months to mature. Tornjaks are strong and good-natured dogs who like people. However, they will react aggressively when faced with other animals or in the case of an attack on their homes, corrals, or herds. These incorruptible dogs require little care. Writers have noted the presence of this type of dog for centuries, and referred to it as a "mountain dog." The local population has always called these dogs Tornjaks. They generally have two colors, or can be multicolored.